Fin's Fish Guide
The Blue striped grunt (Haemulon sciurus) is a saltwater fish of the family Haemulidae that grows up to 46 cm.
Coral reefs and seagrass beds of the western Atlantic and the Caribbean.
Description
The bluestriped grunt (Haemulon sciurus) is a grunt of the family Haemulidae from the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species has a yellow body with numerous bright blue lengthwise stripes and a conspicuous red mouth lining, and reaches about 46 cm. It occurs in small groups over coral and rocky reefs and drop-offs; juveniles are abundant in seagrass beds. The diet consists of crustaceans, bivalves and other invertebrates. Like other grunts the species makes grunting sounds with its pharyngeal teeth. It is a valued food fish, but there are reports of ciguatera poisoning after eating larger specimens.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blue striped grunt?
The Blue striped grunt has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Yellow body with blue longitudinal stripes and a red mouth cavity; produces grunting sounds. Note: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with caution or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Blue striped grunt live?
The Blue striped grunt lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Coral reefs and seagrass beds of the western Atlantic and the Caribbean.
How big does the Blue striped grunt get?
The Blue striped grunt grows to a maximum of about 46 cm. On average the species is around 25 cm.
Is the Blue striped grunt dangerous to humans?
The Blue striped grunt is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The fish is harmless to handle. There are reports of ciguatera poisoning after eating larger specimens; in case of tingling, nausea, vomiting or reversed hot-cold sensation, seek medical help.
Is the Blue striped grunt edible?
The Blue striped grunt is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Haemulon
More from the family Haemulidae
Want the complete picture on the Blue striped grunt?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blue striped grunt is one of 12,519 species in the app.